The college is participating in its annual New York State Fire Inspection, which began on Oct. 19 and will last for approximately three weeks.

The mandatory program involves extensive inspections of all rooms and spaces in every building on campus.

This is a preliminary inspection conducted by the New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control. Re-inspections will occur in December and January and will focus on all of the issues identified in the preliminary inspection. A final inspection will occur in January and February to address any issues that have not been corrected.

Scott Schulte, assistant director of environmental health and safety – fire safety division, asks the campus community to be on the lookout for any potential fire hazards and to contact his department.

Potential fire hazards include:

• Prohibited items: extension cords, multi-prong adapters, incense, candles, space heaters, surge protectors, tapestries and wall hangings;

• Propped doors;

• Blocked fire extinguishers, fire alarm pull stations, exits, fire alarm panels and electrical panels;

• Fire Doors not properly closed;

• Vehicles parked in fire lanes or in front of fire hydrants;

• Desks, chairs, tables and other furniture in hallways;

• Exit signs not in working order and illuminated;

• Smoking within 50 feet of any building entrance on campus;

• Properly inspected fire extinguishers;

• Items stored within 18 inches of a sprinkler head or within 24 inches of any ceiling;

• Waste accumulation;

• Obstructed room doorways.

If any of the above listed situations or hazards exist, contact Schulte at schultes@newpaltz.edu or x3310.

“This is our community,” said Schulte. “The responsibility lies with all of us to identify and report any fire code violations, so that we can live, work and interact in the safest environment possible.”